Plano

Just minutes from downtown Dallas, Plano offers attractions such as the Legacy Town Center's Bassus Plaza, with its sculptures depicting a typical cattle drive along the Shawnee Trail; the brick-paved antique district of downtown; the Heritage Farmstead; and the Interurban Railway Station. Southfork Ranch, home of the world-famous Ewings of TV's "Dallas," is a favorite. Plano also is known for its wildflowers, especially during spring and summer, and for excellent shopping and restaurants.

The Texas Legislature has recognized Plano as the "Hot Air Balloon Capital of Texas" for its annual hot-air balloon races in September. A large arts-and-crafts fair is held in conjunction with the balloon festival. 800/817-5266.